Summer Learning Sponsorship
Program Update March 2021: We are pleased to share that a newly designed Summer Learning Program is to launch this summer. We will once again be supporting those in need of financial assistance to participate in the program. We are currently open for donations to this specific cause.
Program Update July 2020: Due to the Covid-19 crisis, the Westerly Public School’s Hasbro/United Way Summer Learning Initiative at the Tower Street School Community Center is unable to operate for summer 2020 and the Tower Street facility has been closed. Opening Doors for Westerly’s Children has enjoyed a longstanding relationship with this program, providing funding annually, and we hope to continue the association when the program is able to safely re-open in a new location.
About the Program: Summer Setback refers to the loss of academic skills and knowledge children experience throughout summer break. If a child does not have access to stimulating activities over that long break, they are more apt to experience learning shortfalls when they return in the fall. The cumulative effect can result in a two year grade loss by the time a student reaches high school. The Westerly Public Schools Hasbro/United Way Summer Learning Initiative, with funding from Opening Doors for Westerly’s Children, is a program with activities designed to prevent this very “summer setback.”
This 6 week, full-day summer curriculum centers around hands-on applied learning in the arts, science and technology. The children spend their time learning and growing through reading, arts and crafts, gardening and photography classes and much more-all to stimulate their natural curiosity. There are fun educational field trips weekly to local and nearby attractions such as the Westerly Public Library, museums, parks, theaters and shore attractions. Every activity is intended to engage their young minds and keep them excited about learning through the summer months. The summer program is based at the Tower Street School Community Center.
Westerly students may enroll in this program annually. Approximately 60% of the children enrolled are eligible for free or reduced lunch. Our organization offers an important sponsorship program to support those children. Every year we need to raise approximately $20,000 to assist those families.
